Ukrainian strikes prompt Russian propagandists to criticize air defense failures

Ukrainian strikes on Russian rear areas have intensified criticism from Russian propagandists and bloggers against their government's ineffective air defense. These critics highlight chaos in Russian air defense, urging a unified command and criticizing the delegation of responsibility to businesses. They note Russia's vast size is becoming a vulnerability, with no safe rear areas. The Institute for the Study of War (ISW) reports these gaps have caused fuel shortages and that Russia struggles to bolster rear defenses while maintaining front-line security, potentially allowing Ukraine to increase its long-range strikes.